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avengers academy

It’s a good mix of comics this week including a bunch I’ve been waiting to read. What’s worth it? Find out below!

American Vampire #21 – We get some insight into who Skinner is, but still not how he became what he is. That’s the story I thought was being told, but it’s clear that this story arc was just one small piece of the larger puzzle that Scott Snyder will eventually reveal. Much like his general writing style, even with the bigger story telling, Snyder takes his time, laying it out in a slow, but enjoyable reveal.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Avengers Academy #23 – The plot of future Reptil coming back to make sure his timeline happens is rather interesting, but there’s something that’s missing to me as far as the writing. The art too isn’t as top notch as I’d expect from an important title like this. As with the characters, there’s something that just seems junior to me. It’s an improvement in the series, but still not enough for me to consider it an “A” title.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Avengers: X-Sanction #1 – This is the first step in the big Avengers vs. X-Men fight that reaches it’s full blown madness in a few months. Cable is back to prevent a disaster in the future and to do that he has to take on the Avengers. It all revolves around Hope too, and with all the mystery surrounding her, this event has the potential to reveal a hell of a lot. The first issue is interesting and pretty solid, but quite of a few of Marvel’s recent events have started out strong too only to stumble. We’ll see if this one can buck that trend.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5

Batgirl #4 – We finally find out how Barbara is walking, even if it’s just a few panels and her battle with Mirror comes to an end in this holiday themed issue. Overall the comic is pretty good as expected with Gail Simone behind the wheel, but it still nags me about Barbara Gordon now walking. That’s not Simone’s fault, but it’s still the elephant in the room as it feels insulting to those who are in wheelchairs or who have other disabilities. The comic is good though, even with the rather lame villain.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Batman and Robin #4 – We learn a bit as to who Nobody is as the villain and Batman fight for Damian’s loyalty. It’s interesting these two so easily represent the dual sides of Damian, but it’s also so obvious this is the intent. The comic doesn’t have subtlety, but the story is entertaining and art very solid. Overall a good addition to the Bat family of comics.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Batwoman #4 – Flamebird gets her butt whooped as Batwoman continues to search for the missing children and attempts to have a social life. The story as usual isn’t the draw here, it’s all about the art which continues to be amazing. Hopefully the storytelling will get to the level of the art and layout and at that point, this’ll be one of the best comics out there. Until then, it’s only for people looking for something beautiful to look at.

Story: 7.25 Art: 9 Overall: 7.5

Battle Scars #2 – The mystery of Marcus Johnson isn’t revealed in this second issue…. maybe the next one? The comic is ok, but nothing that’s gotten me too excited.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #526 – In a plot that’s rather appropriate in today’s anti-corporate fervor, we find out exactly what Wilson Fisk wants with the Bank of Wakanda. The story is pretty solid in it’s chess like plot and the art is always great.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Green Lantern #4 – Jordan and Sinestro versus the entire Sinestro Corps. But, what happens when they fail? Captured and surrounded by people that hate them, Sinestro and Jordan have to figure out how to escape and free an enslaved world that despises them.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Iron Man 2.0 #11 – Just one more issue to go with Warmachine taking on a nano tech villain. It’s been an interesting story, but nothing quite amazing. The art in this issue though takes a dip as a few different folks hop in to put it all together. The usual interesting and unique look changes a bunch and often in a jarring way.

Story: 7.25 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Magneto: Not a Hero #2 – What the hell is going on? Unless you’re a die-hard “X” fan and care about Joseph/Erik/Magneto, this comic just makes little sense for the folks who haven’t been reading for decades.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

the New Avengers #19 – It’s Norman Osborn’s new Dark Avengers and a lot of discussion of what worked, what didn’t and why this team is better. At the same time the new Avengers discuss Norman being loose and it looks like they have a traitor in their midst.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Resurrection Man #4 – A bunch of crazy in this issue as various forces merge to get Shelley back. There’s heaven and hell and two women sporting big guns and a guy calling himself Transhuman. The series is pretty crazy, but something very entertaining and interesting about it all.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

S.H.I.E.L.D. #4 – Is this in continuity? There’s some things shown here that are pretty huge if this is happening in the 616 world. As usual, a lot I like in the series but also a lot that’s a bit dense and hard to get in to.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Suicide Squad #4 – The cover lays it out there “betrayed by one of their own,” but who it is and why definitely caught me off guard. The second arc comes to a close and leads directly into the third. The series isn’t the tops out there and needs a bit more fine tuning to turn it into a solid Dirty Dozen type comic, but it’s still entertaining to read.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Superboy #4 – Superboy is given a choice after it’s clear who and what Red is. But, in his wandering to figure it all out, Superboy comes off as a dick. It’s interesting to follow this series, just because of it’s tie into Teen Titans, but without that, there’s not a whole lot that’s enjoyable about this Superboy.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Ultimate Comics X-Men #4 – Well, hell, I totally didn’t expect that and see that coming. Stryker attacks New York while the US government and the remaining X-Men have to figure out how to respond. The story is very familiar, but just different enough to keep me on my toes. The Ultimate universe is one where anything can happen and it does.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Force #18 – Well that was one hell of an ending and I have to say I got a bit emotional for part of it, but still not sure why there was a bag. Rick Remender’s epic story of the rise of the new Apocalypse goes out with a bang and deserves to be put up there as one of the best “X” stories ever. Solid on every level.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

The Walking Dead #92 – Just when you think writer Robert Kirkman is going to go in one direction, he throws something at you that you weren’t expecting. This issue really shakes up the series and I’m sure you’re jaw dropped at the ending like mine.

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A thick stack of books this week. We’re coming up on the end of the year, what’s going to make our best of list? There’s only a few weeks left for comics to qualify. Find out if any of this week’s comics stand a chance below.

The Avengers #19 – This continues the transition as we find out who is going to be a member of the new Avengers team. Unfortunately, while there’s a lot of discussion of who might be on, we’re not given tons of reason of the why. The team though seems interesting. The other focus is Osborn’s escape. There’s a twist at the end as well that I didn’t expect, that’ was pretty damn interesting. Overall a ho-hum issue that looks to set up a decent upcoming story arc.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Avengers Academy #22 – With the academy on the West coast close to Utopia it was only a matter time before Cyclops, Magneto and others paid a visit. That’s happened sooner than later with a rather silly fight breaking out. The issue could have had some great emotional impact with Magneto’s seeing Quicksilver, but a needless fight just dilutes the situation and makes it rather eye rolling.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Batman #3 – We’re dragged further into what exactly the Talon is and what it has to do with Bruce’s relatives. It feels like a bit of a stretch as far as the family connection, but I like the pacing and some of the ways the story is laid out. The art is fantastic as well. Out of all of the lines DC has, the Bat one is definitely the strongest and this series is a good example of that.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

The Bionic Man #4 – I’m not sure if the “we can rebuild” it refers to the actual making of the Bionic Man or Kevin Smith and Phil Hester’s ability to breath new life into this franchise. The build up is fantastic and there’s tons of winks and nods throughout the comic, including why the nu-nu-nu happened anytime Steve Austin does something. There’s a lot of explanation of the process which makes it seem that much more plausible and adds a bit of realism (especially that the writers have thought it through). The series has been a slow start and it’s taken four issues to get to this point, but it’s well worth.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Captain America #4 – Cap is still stuck in the dream world as we get to see some of the bigger plan as well as the motivation. The issue is interesting, but there’s too much “Inception” in it without really using that movie’s landscape bending abilities. The story is decent, but it actually doesn’t go far enough to show us the entertainment that a world without rules could be.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Captain Atom #3 – Some amazing philosophical questions are thrown out there as far as Captain Atom’s powers and his ability to “play god.” What should he do? What’s the difference between his actions and miracles? That’s all thrown out there. Also, he meets up with the Flash in Libya dealing with that situation. DC promised heroes dealing with real world situations and it looks like they’re doing just that. An amazing issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Deadman #3 – Really this is Quantum Leap in comic book form, but there’s certain parts of this issue that are heart wrenching. The comic has an emotional impact and it’ll be interesting to see this story arc through completion. So far so good in what’s been one of the standout series of the DC relaunch.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.5

Fear Itself #7.3 – During Fear Itself, what happened in Paris opened up a storyline that could have been explored for years. Unfortunately, in this one issue, that pretty big act has been undone. That’s the bad part. The good part is that Tony decides to see the Grey Gargoyle and discuss what it is to be a God and what happened. That part is an interesting conversation. Overall, hopefully we see the PTSD impact I’d expect from what Tony has gone through and here’s to some decent stories in the future even if the horrific act committed is undone with a flick of the wrist.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Fear Itself: The Fearless #3 – Generally not feeling this twelve issue limited series that follows the chase for the hammers left on Earth. The story is meh and there’s some poor attempts to tie in the past and the present. The follow up mini-series is of the same quality as the event that proceeded it.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Generation Hope #13 – The series has only glimpsed what it could be in the short year it’s been around. I haven’t praised the series too much and with this first issue of it’s new creative team it also shows what could be. The art is improved in spots, but is still inconsistent. The story is also inconsistent. I’m sticking with the series in hopes it sees improvement, but so far I’m weary.

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

Green Hornet #19 – This is the first issue I haven’t liked a whole lot. We learn the origin of the Red Hand and the way he’s defeated is meh. Something is off with this issue, both in story and the art.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Green Lantern Corps. #3 – It’s a last stand as the team dispatched to fight a mysterious enemy hold out for the cavalry to arrive. The story is interesting, but it’s a small part of a larger story. The larger story is really a draw, this one issue doesn’t stand on it’s own.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7

Justice League #3 – Darkseid is looming as the team continues to gather. There’s an interesting dynamic going on and I can’t say I’m a fan of all of the depictions of the characters, but overall the series is pretty damn solid and gives the feel of that big story you’d want and expect.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

New Mutants #34 – The team begins to settle down and see what a normal life is like, but at the same time they’re on the lookout for Blink who is hopping around where strange weather phenomena are occurring. The issue is interesting and series has potential, but I remain skeptical to see if it ever finds it’s own voice.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Nightwing #3 – Hmm, it’s interesting to see them try to flesh out Dick’s life in the circus, and it’s interesting to see where the series goes, but the idea of a killer going after Dick, for something, just doesn’t seem to jarring to really get me excited. These first three issues have been one big set up. We’ll see what’s actually used going forward after this arc wraps up.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7

The Punisher #5 – An interesting issue that’s supposed to make you think of what a soldier doing their duty is. It could stand on it’s own, but is a follow up to the previous issue. The story takes place 100 days since his ass whooping and the Punisher is on the mend healing his wounds. Not the best of the series, but not too bad either.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8 Overall: 7.5

Supergirl #3 – Kara is still getting acclimated to her new world as Superman attempts to give her the rundown. We also get to find out who the bad guy is. It all really doesn’t have much interest in me. What does seem interesting is Supergirl’s learning of her new world and coming to grips with her new reality and the fantastic art.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

Thunderbolts #165 – Generally an enjoyable comic, but there’s something missing about it. I generally don’t like time travel stories, and this is really just that. Overall, not bad, but not great.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7.25

Ultimate Comics X-Men #3 – Stryker continues his plan as the X-Men are on the run and the team begins to form up a bit. It’s all very interesting, enough to make me want to go back and see everything I’ve missed. Overall, this has the danger and excitement that’s been missing from the 616 X-Men for some time.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Venom #9 – The emotional trauma has been building up for some time and a villain attempts to take advantage of the chaos post Spider-Island. During the crime spree he kills a few pedestrians which sends Venom over the edge. The series has a nice feel of a man living on the edge which I hope it plays up more as it gets back to standing on it’s own.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

The Walking Dead #91 – It feels like the usual calm before the storm. The group is dealing with winter and dwindling supplies as Carl learns to live with his injury. Tensions are mounting and I’m sure it’ll explode into something big knowing Kirkman.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Wonder Woman #3 – We get the truth about Wonder Woman and her lineage as some Amazon’s aren’t too happy with what’s occurred. The first three issues have been interesting, setting up the new status quo. The art is fantastic and overall this series is one of the better DC is putting out there.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

X-Factor #227 – Lots of fighting, kind of silly, but that was an interesting ending….

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

X-Men #21 – A small nation is gathering Sentinel technology to defend itself from anything. That’s interesting but would be even better if compared with the right of Utopia to protect itself.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

X-23 #17 – Laura gets a call from the Future Foundation, to babysit. The story is cute and fun, but it’s the art that stands out, back to the anime inspired look we saw a few arcs ago.

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The pile of new comics has started to dwindle as I’m figuring out the comics from DC’s relaunch I’m keeping and what’s just not making the cut. Will things get cut this week? Find out below!

American Vampire #20 – The lead up to the origin of Skinner continues as we learn more about how his maker became a vampire and there’s hints why the “American vampire” is different than it’s European cousins, though that’s not completely laid out. The story is entertaining and it’s fun to see a western mashed up with a good ole horror tale. Snyder continues to put out a solid product here.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 8

Animal Man #3 – Vertigo is in full effect in the DCU. This comic is so out there and so crazy and at the same time so entertaining. Animal Man and his daughter head into The Red and we learn a bit about the origin of Animal Man. Meanwhile the rest of their family are attacked too. The series is so crazy and “out horrors” the rest of DC dark.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Avengers Academy #21 – I haven’t been the biggest fan of the series, much preferring it’s incarnation as the “Initiative,” but this issue kicks off it’s new direction with a lot of new characters and one hell of an ending. I’m still a bit skeptical due to the past, but this first issue has piqued my interest.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Batman: Detective Comics #3 – So, we finally get to find out who the Dollmaker is, but something about this issue just doesn’t quite seem right. It might be because it’s predictable. It might be that the whole schtick for this bad guy doesn’t quite make sense. Out of the three main Bat-titles, this is the weakest of the bunch.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Batwing #3 – Huh. The politics is very subtle so far, but this issue delves a little into that with The Kingdom, but mostly the issue is Batwing getting his ass kicked and we get to see a bit of his past that adds a whole lot of depth about him. The series is interesting and surprisingly good. The art is solid and stands out. Overall, it’s a welcome addition to the Bat-family and DC comics.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Dark Shadows #1 – All I know of Dark Shadows is that it’s a former television show involving a vampire that has a cult following and is highly regarded. So, I went into the first issue as a blank slate and I came out pretty impressed. The issue focuses on the individuals giving enough for new readers to figure out who everyone is and what their deal is and I’m sure fans will have a lot more to go on. The story is interesting and I can’t quite tell if this is a horror soap opera or a straight up horror story. There’s enough to make me come back for a second issue.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Fear Itself #7.1: Captain America – The first of three epilogue’s for Fear Itself reveals the fate of Bucky who’ll get his own series starting in January (I’d say that’s a spoiler, but it’s been all over). It’s funny that this comic is so much better than the event in spun out of, but it really feels like a lead up and pitch for a new series as opposed to closure to Marvel’s sub-par event.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

Fear Itself: The Fearless #2 – The series is focused on Valkyrie’s and Crossbone’s attempts to regain the hammers. Valkyrie’s story is a bit of a stretch as it attempts to flesh out her background and Crossbone’s seems to avoid the change that happened to him in Thunderbolts. The first issue was entertaining, but this second one quickly has fallen into issues that Fear Itself had.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Huntress #1 – I’ve had a lot of people recommend this comic that came out a few weeks ago, so I decided to give it a shot. Huntress heads to Naples and takes on a smuggler of women and guns. The series is pretty solid, but I don’t quite get why it doesn’t take place in the new DCU. The Huntress is a solid, strong, female lead which is great to see. She kicks a lot of ass and the bad guy is down to Earth in that, he doesn’t have super powers sort of way. The series could have a hell of a message if the writer wanted, but as it stands it’s an entertaining read.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Moon Knight #7 – Moon Knight deals with the fact that he was snitched on and the Avengers were called. He also hatches a plan to find out who the bad guy behind it all is. Those around him also begin to deal with the fact the man is clearly nuts. The series is fantastic with amazing art, and some great action. The interaction between everyone is top notch as well. This is one of the best comics Marvel is putting out right now.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

New Mutants #33 – The split is done and the team must decide who they’re sticking with and what their role in the “X” world will be. The art I think is still off and there’s some parts of the story I liked, but overall something is still off about the series. It seems that they’ll be playing a more integrated role with human society in Cyclop’s world and their first mission seems interesting, but there’s a lot of talk in this issue that doesn’t shed a lot of depth on the characters. It is a decent hopping on point for new readers.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Red Lantern #3 – Writer Peter Milligan is attempting to give depth to characters who have been one note up until now. His direction has them being the Ghost Riders of rage and so far it’s been ok. But, the characters have been mindless beasts for the most part driven by rage. Next up to get the fleshed out treatment is Bleez whose mind is cleared and becomes the second in command. But, with that promotion there’s also hints there’s more to it. Not the best issue, but Milligan is doing what he can with what he’s been given.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.5

Stormwatch #3 – This is supposed to be one of the pillars of the new DCU but the comic has been a bit hard to sift through and figure out everything that’s going on. We’ve been thrown into the action without much of an explanation and while it’s all quirky and somewhat entertaining, I can’t yet declare it an “A” list series. I’m giving it the first arc, then I’ll make my decision.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Swamp Thing #3 – We’re starting to get a clearer picture as to what the big baddie Swamp Thing will face. I also get a sense that this same bad guy is also who Animal Man will deal with. It’s interesting that these two series are relying on colors as much as Green Lantern mythos does. The horror feel is still present and the two books are definitely Vertigo come to DC. Snyder is always slow to start with his series, that’s his style, but when it’s still so good, who cares.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

Uncanny X-Men #1 – The good is they’ve finally thrown it out there and equated mutant powers as a deterrent and Utopia as a nation with one. They’ve been hinting at it for quite a while, but never just laid it out there. It’s some interesting logic thrown around and hopefully we finally get to see what was promised, the focus on a true mutant nation and what that really means as well as what it takes to pull that off. The action itself revolves around the Dreaming Celestial and Mr. Sinister, that’s all off. If anything, this first issue shows a lot of potential, but doesn’t quite excite.

Story: 7 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.25

Villains for Hire #0.1 – We’ve seen the heroes, but this point one issue sets up the villains out there looking to be hired to pull off jobs. The first issue is interesting, but doesn’t quite set up the series to come enough. Instead it focuses a lot more on the heroes stopping the villains, not what brought them together. Together the two series should be fun and here’s hoping it has the exploitation movie feel like it’s sister series. But, this “first issue” doesn’t quite excite me enough.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

X-Men #20 – Hmmm. The team is interesting and first issue of it’s direction much like Uncanny has potential. I don’t dig the overused good guys versus good guys over a misunderstanding before they team up schtick. But, the story continues the whole proliferation of Sentinels story, so that’s cool. But, overall, meh.

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Some debuts and a lot of second issues for DC. What’s worth it and what should be skipped? Find out below!

All Star Western #2 – Two western stories in this issue. The first continues Jonah Hex’ and Dr. Arkham’s investigation into the murder of prostitutes in Gotham. We learn the “who” as far as the bad guys, but not really the “why.” There’s some hints to it, but it’s not really laid out in this issue. The second story is a zombie western that’s entertaining in a throwback sort of way. Hex’s story is great, the second story is just so-so. Overall though the comic is still a welcome addition to the DC line up.

Story: 8 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

Annihilators: Earthfall #2 – Hmm, I fear the cosmic side of the Marvel universe is starting to gas. The Annihilators take on the Avengers in one of those misunderstanding fights. The Church is also up to something, hatching someone… The story is pretty typical and has been tread before (two teams fight before teaming up) and the art is really off and inconsistent. Rocket Racoon and Groot’s story is entertaining though, but that too just seems off. Overall, I’m left pretty bummed.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Aquaman #2 – Going into the reboot, this series was one I’ve been more skeptical of. I can’t say I’ve been too fond of Aquaman as a character and have never enjoyed his solo series. Well, times have changed. With this second issue, the series is becoming one of the top tier DC reboot series, standing above others in it’s quality of writing and art. Just beyond solid and an absolute must read.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Astonishing X-Men #43 – Emma and Danger team up to free a computer program that’s detected. I yawn. The story isn’t “astonishing” and actually quite boring. Hopefully the series gets it’s footing and figures out it’s place in the “X” world, cause right now it’s stumbling.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Avengers Academy #20 – It’s post Fear Itself and the group has to decide what to do. Instructors and students leave and the ending opens up for the series’ new direction. It has to be better than what’s come before. The series needs a shake up, hopefully it gets better than what it’s been.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Batman: The Dark Knight #2 – Someone is giving Gotham’s freaks a drug that gets them all roided up and Batman is on the case. Lots of fighting ensues, but again the art is what stands out for the series, clearly much better than the story itself. Also, the Joker pops up in the end, which is a bit odd considering his fate in other series… not sure how that works, but whatever.

Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.25

Captain America & Bucky #623 – An important asset has been captured by the Nazi’s and Bucky and Toro head to free him without orders. During the mission they discover the horrors that the Nazi’s have been committing. Unfortunately a bad fate awaits Bucky before he could see their liberation. It looks like we’ll be getting a glimpse of Bucky’s Winter Soldier years next. The comic’s been entertaining so far, here’s hoping the next arc is just as solid.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Daken: Dark Wolverine #16 – I’ve enjoyed the series overall, but this latest story that saw Daken being addicted to a drug is mixed. I like the idea of the addiction and how it’s messed with his healing factor. That opens up a lot of future stories if they stick with it. But, the person behind it all seems silly and it doesn’t totally make sense with the lack of a lot of set up. The motivation is missing even with the attempts at an explanation peppered throughout. A mixed bag overall.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Daredevil #6 – The mystery over the firing of a blind man begins to unravel and it’s a big international conspiracy. A certainly interesting story in how it’s being presented. Mark Waid is giving us a top Daredevil series that’s a mix of pop and noir and all kinds of fantastic. One of the best Marvel comics on the stand, beyond solid and an absolute buy.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

DMZ #70 – As the series winds down we’re given glimpses of the New York City that is and what might be. A city, a nation, wracked by war and destroyed in spirit and mind. Through seventy issues Matty Roth has explored this world as a reporter and as an agent for change. For seventy issues we were drawn into this world that reflected events from our own. In this issue we’re asked “how.” How, for seventy issues, Zee has been able to keep herself together while Matty spiraled out of control like the city. One went with the flow of events, the other tried to change events. For seventy issues Matty has been part of the story, he’s been the story and for his role in this world, for his acts it looks like he’ll finally answer to someone. Brian Wood is wrapping up this epic look at war, peace, journalism, corporatism and activism. And it looks like it’ll end with a hell of a message.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

FF #11 – Attilan, the Inumans, Kree and Annihilus, how is this being contained in just the Fantastic Four!? This story seems ripe for a massive classic crossover event. Writer Jonathan Hickman is bringing together threads he set out a long time ago and it’s beginning to really pay off. This issue was full of “holy shit” moments.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.5

The Flash #2 – While Barry might run like the fastest man on the planet his mind isn’t catching up to his legs. In this issue he works on that with some really entertaining results. There’s a lot of moments that made me feel like a kid while reading the comic and staring at the amazing art. This is a series that’s speeding it’s way to the top of the pile of DC’s 52 revamp.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5

Green Lantern: New Guardians #2 – Kyle is still trying to figure out why so many rings are being attracted to him. The other corps. members aren’t too happy about it, leading to the predictable drag out fight. The issue’s ending is what’s worthwhile for the issue, both Kyle’s interaction with the Guardians and what happens to him (as predictable as it is). The issue is interesting so far.

Story: 8 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

I, Vampire #2 – Joshua Hale Fialkov has put together one of the best series of DC’s new 52. Instead of a straight forward vampire tale, they’re portrayed as freedom fighters, attempting their liberation. An interesting take that resonates with modern times much more. A beyond excellent second issue that puts the series up there as one of the best of DC’s relaunch, but also one of the best comics out there.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Journey Into Mystery #630 – Volstagg returns home to recount the story of Fear Itself to his children. It’s actually a very cute issue that’s a great read and very entertaining. There’s something sweet and innocent about it. We’ll see where the series goes from here.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Justice League Dark #2 – What. The. Fuck. I have no idea what the hell was going on. And how is Deadman having discussions with Dove when he’s out and about in his series. I’m so confused…

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.75

Legion: Secret Origin #1 – I wasn’t a fan of the relaunch Legion titles and can’t say this one interests me either. Just not my cup of tea. There’s too many characters and not enough focus to explain it all to new readers. But at least I got a cool ring out of purchasing it.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6

The Mighty Thor #7 – After all of these months, we’re finally shown the origin of the Serpent and his war with Odin. After all of the build up, it’s not very good.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

New Mutants #32 – Hrm, I still think the story could of ended an issue or two ago. A casualty of being tied into Fear Itself.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7 Overall: 6.5

Secret Avengers #18 – Another self-contained issue written by Warren Ellis. This one sees the Shadow Council trying to gather a weapon. It’s entertaining and there’s a lot going for it, but I just don’t see the overall direction of the series or it’s point.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

Spaceman #1 – A very odd new limited series from Brian Azzarello. I have no idea what to make of it, but it’s $1, so you have no excuse not to give it a shot.

Story: 6.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 6.5

Stitched #1 – Another messed up horror tale set in the Afghanistan war zone. I have no idea what the hell is going on other than over the top violence.

Story: 6 Art: 7 Overall: 6

Teen Titans #2 – Red Robin continues to gather his team as N.O.W.H.E.R.E. makes it’s move. It’s clear one of the next big events will center around what’s going on this series. I also like how Superboy plays into it as well.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles #3 – We get more of the Turtle’s origins as they look for their missing brother Raphael. I really dig the series, especially Casey Jones. It feels like the old school gritty comics I loved and not the campy version they turned into later.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Ultimate Comics the Ultimates #3 – S.H.I.E.L.D. attempts to engage the enemy straight on and all hell breaks loose. Not the best issue, but this is the first action sequence of an epic story.

Story: 7 Art: 8 Overall: 7

Venom #8 – What!? How did that fit in her!? Another tie-in that’s such shoddier than the normal series. I loved the letter from Flash’s dad though. What could have had some amazing emotional impact is lost in a jumbled mess of a tie-in.

Story: 6 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6

Voodoo #2 – Writer Ron Marz asked people to look past the strip club setting of the first issue and I’m glad I did. This second issue is more spy/on the run action than anything with the government after Voodoo who is on some sort of mission for her alien people. Lots of action and some tight writing. A great second issue.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

The Walking Dead #90 – The series’ power is it’s focus on human nature. This issue shows that all as things somewhat settle down but human nature takes over as people react and plot. Robert Kirkman is leading the series on it’s way to it’s 100th issue and it hasn’t slowed down in any way. Beyond fantastic because the zombies aren’t the star of the comic, it’s the people doing everything they can to survive.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Wolverine & The X-Men #1 – A first issue that’s so beyond entertaining. I laughed, had a bit of nostalgia and can’t wait for the second issue. I love Toad being Milton and their attempting to get accredited. Just so many fantastic moments in this kinetic and frenetic first issue. Welcome back to form.

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I’ve already posted reviews for the DC comics that came out, but here’s everything else.

American Vampire #19 – I guess this could be subtitled “the origin of Skinner Sweet.” I think we’ll finally learn how he became a vampire by the end of it. But so far, we’re thrown into the Civil War, the American war with the Indians and get to learn a lot about Sweet and his history. An interesting start to the new arc.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Annihilators: Earthfall #1 – The Annihilators still have the Universal Church to deal with which has now splintered into two factions fighting each other. That leads them to Earth which gets noticed by a whole lot of folks. A bunch of aliens beating up humans doesn’t go over too well. Hopefully there’ll be more than fighting to this four issue limited series. The Rocket Racoon and Groot story is entertaining, but not enough to put this issue over the top.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Avengers Academy #19 – The battle with Absorbing Man and Titania comes to an end with very uneven art and a story I shrug my shoulders about. I don’t understand the praise over the series.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Astonishing X-Men #42 – The battle with the Brood is over and there’s so much wrong here. Storm goes from being infected to not in one panel, there’s a lot of sappy foreshadowing. This series is anything but astonishing.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Black Panther: The Most Dangerous Man Alive #523.1 – An ok issue, that unfortunately again puts women in danger to get at the hero. An all too easy plot device. There’s a lot I liked, and a lot I didn’t (replacing bullets!?). Not the best of the series and definitely not a good point one. Also, following this with an event issue just isn’t smart planning.

Story: 7 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.25

Brilliant #1 – The latest from Brian Michael Bendis and Mark Bagley asks the question, “what if super powers were real?” There’s some promise here, but the first issue doesn’t hook me like it should have. I also can’t help but think I’ve seen this all before.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

Captain America & Bucky #622 – Bucky takes center stage as he has to deal with the fact he’s the only person without power. The Invaders get captured and he has to rush to their aid. The series has been fun so far with solid art. It’s nice it gives a look into Bucky’s early years without have to retcon a bunch of stories. So far so good.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Fear Itself: Hulk vs. Dracula #2 – Two issues in and all this is, is one big fight scene between the Hulk and Vampires. So far it adds little to the great Fear Itself storyline and the fact it’s release schedule is compressed makes me think this was a last minute thing or extremely late. While not horrible in any way, I struggle to think of a reason one should buy it other than being a completist.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7 Overall: 6.75

Fear Itself: The Deep #4 – The series itself was blah, but that’s what’s known as foreshadowing. It’s clear we’ll see a lot of these characters in the new Defenders series that will sure start. Whether that’ll be better, that remains to be seen, but if it’s not, I don’t see it lasting long.

Story: 6.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7

FF #9 – The Inhuman’s whip some ass and with one issue Black Bolt is back and just dominates. The way he dismisses everyone just is so bad ass. A great issue that continues the problem with the Reed Richards’. There’s also something with Valeria that’s up and who knows where that’s going. A great continuation of a fantastic series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Incorruptible #22 – Max Damage continues to do his thing to try to clean up his act as a new villain comes on the scene. Plutonian also decides to show up, which should be interesting in the next issue. Not the best of the series, but it’s a fun series overall.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Iron Man 2.0 #9 – The Palmer Addley story continues as we finally learn how he’s “survived.” It’s an interesting issue and a lot I liked, but a bunch I had some issues with. It’s unfortunate in that the series had a lot of momentum and then got derailed by Fear Itself. If this was a straight story, without the break, it’d of been much better, but Marvel f-ed this up and a few other series with the distraction.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Journey Into Mystery #628 – Loki leads the troops against the Serpent in hell. It’s interesting, but not quite sure exactly what’s going on. I like it, but I’m confused about it all.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Kick-Ass 2 #4 – For all of the talk about how women are treated and portrayed in comics, how did this not cause more of an uproar? The comic is violent porn and the fact there isn’t an outcry over the rape of a teenage girl, the killing of small children and the murder of god knows how many cops makes me question the recent outcry. But, onto the comic, it’s pure violence, with a lot of holy shit moments. I’m a bit torn because it’s so over the top, but like a Tarantino movie, there’s something entertaining about it.

Story: 6 Art: 7.5 Overall: 6.25

The Mighty Thor #6 – Not a bad ending to the battle with Galactus, but the issue remains as to when this takes place? It can’t be post Fear Itself, then there’s the Silver Surfer’s involvement with the Annihilators. It doesn’t exactly add up and for this Marvel fan, it bothers me.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.75

The New Avengers #16.1 – Why did this have to be a point one issue? There’s some good stuff here but the story telling and art are just off from the regular series. If the point ones are supposed to not be just jumping on points but also get folks interested in a series, I just don’t see this doing that.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

New Mutants #31 – I don’t know what it is, but these Fear Itself tie-ins are so bad. The story here is pointless other than a big fight, the art is horrible too. I liked some of the page layouts, but it’s not enough to make is enjoyable.

Story: 6 Art: 6 Overall: 6

Rachel Rising #2 – WTF!? That ending was so disturbing for so many reasons. This is such a creepy horror comic….

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Secret Avengers #17 – Warren Ellis took over the series I was expecting some big explosions and master story telling. We’ve had to self contained issues for his first two issues and neither were all that good. The art isn’t quite up to snuff and the plot is ho-hum. It’s like the comic is treading water until Fear Itself is done.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Ultimate Comics Spider-Man #2 – I can’t say I like how a story that took one issue to tell in the 1960’s will be dragged out for four or five issues, but the pacing and how things unfold are still solid. There’s some great touches that really updates the Spider-Man mythos for the modern world wrapping in technology and discussions of tolerance. Even the stereotypical chat about “responsibility” is updated. This is Spider-Man for a new millennium and that has to do with more than just his skin color.

Story: 8 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8

Ultimate Comics Ultimates #2 – Well that got a bit complicated quickly. I think the pacing was very off in the issue cramming in too much for a new reader, but it’s theme of technology and progress killing myth and god is very intriguing.

Story: 7.5 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Venom #7 – A bit torn on the issue, it’s easy to dismiss it as a tie-in for yet another event, but there’s a lot of focus on Flash and his connection to Venom. It’s very subtle but it’s there. Instead of asking Anti-Venom to come with him, he attacks, there’s then a scene with him and his father. It’s two parts of a comic that’s really a focus on a character and the demons that lie within.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7 Overall: 7.25

Wolverine #16 – The fallout of Wolverine finding himself after killing his children continues, but I can’t help feel like I’ve read this exact same story before….

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

X-Men: Legacy #256 – It’s great to see these characters back, but the story is boring and the art atrocious. Spinning wheels until the shake up is all I have to say really.

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Getting close to catching up with reviews, but here’s the first batch of reviews from last week. Hopefully the second batch will be up later tonight.

Avengers #16 – Bucky is dead (again) and Steve is on the trail of Sin. The issue continues the ongoing interviews that tell the story, which is a solid and different way to do it. The issue is solid in it’s story telling and you get a good sense of remorse.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Avengers Academy #18 – The kids still need to fight Titania and Absorbing Man and there’s some fun moments in the issue. It’s not bad, but not great either. It does have a pulp sense to it, a throwback to old school super hero days.

Story: 7 Art: 7.25 Overall: 7

Captain America #2 – A pretty cool comic with a great look to it, but a bit too Inception for me. There’s some great stuff here though and it’s clear Ed Brubaker hasn’t missed a step with this relaunched series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.5

Daredevil #2 – A cool second issue that focuses on Daredevil getting resettled in the Marvel universe and the repercussions of his meltdown. The issue also reveals the baddie that he’ll face in the first arc and I have to say, this one should make it pretty interesting.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

DMZ #68 – The war is over and in these last few issues Brian Wood focuses on what it takes to keep the peace. It’s an interesting discussion and shows how important this series is in reflecting on the past decade of wars. It’s sad to see it winding down and here’s hoping Wood will again put together such an important discussion about our modern times.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 9

Fables #108 – There’s a vacuum up North as someone needs to take charge as the North Wind. Everyone else also begins to figure out what’s waiting for them post Mr. Dark and the adventure in Oz picks up again (which I forgot about). There’s a lot going on here and the who knows what the series has in store next.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Fear Itself: Deadpool #3 – So fucking bad, I want my money back.

Story: 5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 5

Fear Itself: Fearsome Four #3 – Did this really need to be four issues? I understand Man-Thing should play a big role in Fear Itself, but there’s better ways to do it than this.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.5

Fear Itself: The Home Front #5 – It’s a mixed bag here. Some of the stories and art is good, some of it is pretty bad. But, we’ve learned Fear Itself will be solved with flipcams….

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

Flashpoint: Legion of Doom #3 – Hmmm, not sure what to think about this one. It’s not bad in any way, but has a feel of forgettable 80s comics. It didn’t add much to Flashpoint in the end and not sure it was really needed.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Flashpoint: The Outsider #3 – Unlike a lot of the other tie-ins, this limited series directly goes into the main Flashpoint series as we learn what motivates The Outsider to get involved. The story is interesting, but it’s not a vital read. If nothing else, it opens up some possibilities if the world is ever revisited.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.5

Flashpoint: Wonder Woman and the Furies #3 – The truth about the conspiracy is revealed as a lot of back story is filled in and this issue goes directly into the fifth and final issue of Flashpoint. The art and story telling are decent and the fact this does add a bunch to the main storyline makes it a worthwhile read if you’re interested in that.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

Generation Hope #10 – Now the series gets to the point I think it should have hit a while ago. There’s so much power here. A story about hate, race, history and what some must do to confront evil. It’s easily the best issue of the series, very powerful and a must read, even if you’re not a fan of the series and have never read an issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.75

Green Lantern Corps. #63 – A nice wrap up to everything that’s been going on and that last panel is solid. It’s a few short stories that focus on the aftermath of the war and gives a nice lead up into whatever comes next.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Invincible Iron Man #507 – However the good guys will win, it looks like it all starts here. Tony has a plan and it looks like itIt might involve his modifying himself as well. But during it all, someone is out to stop him. It’s interesting and the fact that Tony is drinking again is the real highlight.

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Two weeks down of reviews and two more to go. Expect some more later today and hopefully I’ll be totally caught up by week’s end.

Alpha Flight #3 – Alpha Flight is on the run and this series at this point would be ho-hum if it weren’t for the fact I’m interested in seeing what the Unity party is really up to. The limited series is close to the half-way point and so far, it’s ok, but hasn’t made it’s case to be an ongoing comic book. The art too is off at times with odd positions of the bodies and art that just doesn’t do it for me.

Story: 6.75 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.75

American Vampire: Survival of the Fittest #3 – Scott Snyder and Sean Murphy’s offshoot comic about Nazi Vampires just keeps getting better and better expanding the world we already know. Amazing stuff and I can’t recommend it enough.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Avengers Academy #17 – There’s parts of this comic I liked and a lot I didn’t. The art is inconsistent, and overall the comic feels like the “B” coming to the other Avengers “A.” I know the series gets a lot of praise, but I was a much bigger fan of it’s previous incarnations, and it hasn’t quite lived up to the potential of it’s first few issues.

Story: 7 Art: 6.75 Overall: 7

Black Panther: The Man Without Fear #522 – I had my doubts when I first saw the American Panther sketches, but using Fear Itself to bring back the Hate Monger has worked really well, mainly because it doesn’t deal with the terrible story that Fear Itself is, and instead treats it as a backdrop. The last story arc was ok, but this one has kicked it up a lot dealing with hate, fear and immigration, a lot of issues being debated today.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Booster Gold #47 – The art is my issue with this particular issue. It’s very, very off. The story is ok and there’s some cool moments, especially the ending, but the series clearly went out with a whimper and not the bang I’d hope for DCnU.

Story: 7 Art: 6.5 Overall: 6.75

Criminal: The Last of The Innocent #3 – Ed Brubaker and Sean Phillips latest entry in their noir comics is as amazing as you’d expect. Instead of following the do-gooder who gets caught up in a bad situation the focus is on the bad guy. It’s enough to inject massive life in a series that’s far and above the rest to begin with. Absolutely mastery.

Story: 10 Art: 10 Overall: 10

Daken: Dark Wolverine #12 – Daken’s plan for the armored car robbery continues and that’d be just ok, but Daken is now having an issue with addiction, and that is getting interesting. The character doesn’t get the respect he deserves and this series is proving why he stands apart and isn’t just a second rate Wolverine.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Deadpool #41 – Deadpool is still in the crazy asylum and the series, which has been having issues lately with quality, has bounced back for at least this one. The art is back on track and I’m starting to like the move away from slapstick. It’s a big improvement.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Fear Itself #5 – This summer event by Marvel has been underwhelming and this comic is the perfect example of the issues it has. Thor dropping his usual speech, Spider-Man turning and running, and a simple solution when it comes to saving Ben Grimm. There’s attempts at cool moments here and it all falls flat.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.25

Fear Itself: Uncanny X-Force #2 – X-Force does it’s part in Fear Itself and I can’t say it adds anything to the storyline. They’re on the move to stop the Purifiers who are trying to take advantage of the situation and not even art by Bianchi can save this mess of a comic that doesn’t need to exist.

Story: 6.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 6.75

Fear Itself: Wolverine #2 – Too many places at once is the issue of this not needed comic tie-in. The art and character design is inconsistent and other than the parts with Wolverine’s girlfriend, I can’t say any of this is needed or important. A clear cash-in that adds nothing to the story and in fact causes bigger issues with it.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint #4 – It’s the second to last issue of the event that’s forced DC to grow up. In a five issue limited series DC comics has not only reshaped their entire universe, but they’ve also brought their comics into modern times. The fourth issue moves the story along with some great moments and a cliffhanger for the fifth and final issue that makes me count down in anticipation of the next issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

Flashpoint: Batman – Knight of Vengeance #3 – As a single issue, I can’t say I’ve enjoyed this final one as much as the previous two, but as a whole, all three are a solid read. This issue jumps back and forth between the past and present which fills in some of the blanks. Overall a solid three issues, even though this is the weakest of the bunch.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Flashpoint: Citizen Cold #3 – A pretty cool ending to the three issue limited series that just fits the feel of a world ending. The art is solid and story entertaining. A solid comic overall and very good limited series.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Flashpoint: Deadman and the Flying Graysons #3 – An interesting comic, but the issue is it doesn’t wrap anything up, in fact it ends as an origin comic. The story is ok, but nothing too special, but I do think the last quarter was much better than the first three fourths.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Flashpoint: Deathstroke and the Curse of The Ravager #3 – An interesting story that adds to the world of Flashpoint, but doesn’t add anything to the Flashpoint story. It’s a decent three issues, but I can’t say I came away with having to read them at all.Decent, but not great.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Flashpoint: Frankenstein and the Creatures of the Unknown #3 – Wow, did this third issue go off the rails. There’s lots of twists and turns and even more that’s just not explained. Why’s the doctor dressed as a mummy? Why are they on horses when they had a plane? Just such silliness that an ok idea crashes and burns in the end.

Story: 6.5 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint: Secret Seven #3 – Out of all of the books, this one is my least favorite. I really don’t understand what was going on, and I honestly didn’t care to figure it all out. The issue is too much backstory that if you didn’t know the characters, you didn’t know what was going on.

Story: 6 Art: 6.75 Overall: 6.5

Flashpoint: World of Flashpoint #3 – A pretty sappy ending. The good about this series is it tied directly into the great Flashpoint story, but it didn’t add anything to it in the end, except show off a bit more of the world. But, that’s about it, it’s a three issue glorified travel guide. It’s not bad in anyway, but not really a must read.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Ghost Rider #2 – I’m still not quite sure what I think about this comic. It’s not bad in any way, but also doesn’t quite grab me like I’d hope. I’m sure die-hard Ghost Rider fans will appreciate it more, but to me, it’s missing that hook that gets me really excited.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Hero Comics 2011 – A comic book to benefit the Hero Initiative, it features work by some greats. For $3.99 you get some awesome stories and it goes towards a good cause.

Story: 9 Art: 9 Overall: 9

Heroes for Hire #10 – The once great series has been sidelined to deal with the underwhelming Marvel event Fear Itself. The team is split between the chaos on the Raft and what’s going on at Yancy Street and neither of it is particularly entertaining.This just slows down the momentum the series had.

Story: 7 Art: 7 Overall: 7

Iron Man 2.0 #7.1 – If the point one comics are supposed to be a jumping on point for new readers, this didn’t achieve that. Instead it’s just a continuation of the ongoing storyline which continues next issue. So the question remains why does this comic exist and why wasn’t it just the eighth issue? The issue is good in that it continues the Palmer Adley storyline, but, it doesn’t need to exist as a point one.

Story: 7.25 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Irredeemable #28 – Plutonian is back and the world and The Paradigm react to his return. But what happens to the people who lied when they said they’d protect you. It’s an interesting issue and I have no idea what Mark Waid has in store next for this series.

Story: 8 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.75

Mega Man #4 – A cute ending that’s perfect for younger kids. The story is entertaining and has enough nostalgia for adults to appreciate it. It’s a decent first arc, but a bit rushed overall.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8

Moon Knight #4 – Moon Knight and Echo check up on each other and have their first date, sort of. The series is beyond solid taking Moon Knight’s crazy to a whole new level. The series is fantastic with great writing and amazing art to match. This should definitely be on your pull list.

Story: 8.75 Art: 8.75 Overall: 8.75

The New Avengers #15 – The issue’s focus is Squirrel Girl and her time during Fear Itself. It’s really entertaining with a great voice to the story telling and solid artwork. It might seem silly at first, but it’s a really good issue.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

New Mutants #29 – After a solid last issue, this one seems to run into the issues we’ve seen with Fear Itself tie-ins. The story just seems out of place and the characterization is off. Along with a new art style (which grew on me throughout the issue) the series seems to have swerved again. This series gets a lot of praise and I’m still not quite sure why. It’s not bad, but clearly the weakest of the “X” books.

Story: 7 Art: 7.5 Overall: 7.25

Rachel Rising #1 – The first issue of Terry Moore’s new series brought with it a lot of buzz and I can see why. It’s all tease though and I think I can see where it’s going, but not 100% sure. There’s enough there though to get me to check out the next issue.

Story: 8 Art: 8 Overall: 8

Secret Six #36 – So sad to see this series go. It’s been a great ride and this final issue has so much going for it. It’s not perfect, but it hits every note reminding us what made the series so special. It’s been great, and unfortunately we won’t be seeing it in the relaunched DCnU. Thank you Gail Simone for giving us thirty-six fantastic issues.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8.5 Overall: 8.5

Severed #1 – Scott Snyder puts together another amazing horror series, which he’s shown he’s a master of. This one also takes place at the early onset of the 20th century, a time period he seems to enjoy writing about. We’re teased a lot and it’s more than enough to get me to check out the second issue.

Story: 9 Art: 8.75 Overall: 9

S.H.I.E.L.D. #2 – The series continues and I continue to scratch my head. I want to like it, and the ideas seem very interesting, but to say I really understand what the hell is going on here is a lie. This is one I know I need to go back and reread the entire thing through again.

Story: 7 Art: 8.5 Overall: 7.5

Supreme Power #3 – A series that continues to mix super heroes and politics, I’ve been finding what it’s been doing is interesting. There’s only one more issue left in this volume, and I’m a bit perplexed how it’s going to wrap up everything that needs to be. It’s a very interesting book though and I can’t wait to see what the fourth issue holds.

Story: 8.25 Art: 8.25 Overall: 8.25

Thunderbolts #161 – The team is focused on saving Chicago, and overall the story is decent with some good interaction between the characters. I can’t say it’s great though. But, a fun read.

Story: 7.5 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.5

the Unwritten #28 – Huh, is really all I can say. The comic series about stories and myths begins to set it’s sites on Biblical tales. How this comic didn’t cause more of an uproar, I’ll never know. But it’s continuing to bring up interesting points in ways I can just barely comprehend.

Story: 8.5 Art: 8 Overall: 8.25

Vengeance #2 – I seriously don’t get this series. It’s supposed to focus on the next generation of heroes and villains, but we’ve seen this exact same story done before, and better. I’m waiting for the big reveal, but so far, pretty unimpressed.

Story: 6.75 Art: 7.25 Overall: 6.75

War of the Green Lanterns Aftermath #2 – The war is over and Sinestro still has a ring on his finger. The corps is rocked and everyone is in doubt. If anything this is an attempt to bridge the new Green Lantern series we’ll be seeing in DCnU. It’s interesting and does it’s best to set up what’s coming next.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

Wolverine #13 – One more issue and this story arc is over thank god. Wolverine continues to run the gauntlet as we get to see the pain he’s caused from the view of his victims. Yawn.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8 Overall: 7.75

X-Factor #223 – The story focusing on Rahne’s child continues and hopefully it ends soon. I can’t say this is the best of stories involving this team lately. It has it’s moments, but right now, it’s only ok.

Story: 7.75 Art: 7.75 Overall: 7.75

X-Men #15.1 – I’m so confused as to what the point of these point one comics are. I thought they’re supposed to be easy entry points to get new readers pumped and interesting about the comic and characters? This is a self contained story, but it has nothing to do with what makes the X-Men interesting. An utter failure.

Story: 7.75 Art: 8.25 Overall: 7.75

X-Men; Legacy #253 – How come Magneto’s helmet keeps coming going? Where does he put it when he’s not wearing it. Other than that weird art issue, the story is cool and we get to the meat of what we want. The return of Havok and Polaris and Rachel.

Story: 8.25 Art: 7.75 Overall: 8

X-23 #13 – Laura, meet Spider-Man and the FF, FF and Spider-Man this is Laura. While that’s interesting and has potential, it’s the hint we might see the NYX crew back that gets me more excited.

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It’s Friday, nuff said. So, tomorrow is Baltimore Comic Con, so follow our Twitter account for updates and our YouTube page to check out the videos as we upload them. Until then, here’s the news you might have missed.

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